Barry Manilow Cancels More Concerts After Cancer Surgery

The 82-year-old singer-songwriter says his body isn't ready to perform 90-minute shows yet.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Barry Manilow announced on Friday that he needs to reschedule several more concerts as he continues to recover following surgery after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Manilow said his surgeon told him his lungs aren't ready yet for the planned 90-minute arena shows, and he won't be able to make it through the performances. The "Copacabana" hitmaker had previously announced in December that he would need to reschedule January concert dates to have the surgery.

Why it matters

Manilow's health issues and need to reschedule concerts highlight the challenges faced by aging musicians as they cope with the physical demands of touring and performing. The singer's openness about his cancer diagnosis and recovery process also sheds light on the realities of managing a major health condition while maintaining a high-profile entertainment career.

The details

In a statement posted on social media, Manilow said his surgeon told him he's "in great shape considering what you've been through, but your body isn't ready" to perform the planned 90-minute arena shows. The surgeon advised Manilow not to do the first batch of arena shows from February 27 through March 17, saying "you won't make it through." Manilow said he's been using the treadmill three times a day, but still couldn't sing more than three songs in a row without having to stop.

  • In December 2025, Manilow announced he had been diagnosed with lung cancer and needed to reschedule January concert dates to have surgery.
  • On February 21, 2026, Manilow announced he needs to reschedule several more concerts as he continues to recover from the surgery.

The players

Barry Manilow

An 82-year-old singer-songwriter known for hits like "Copacabana" who was recently diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent surgery.

Manilow's Surgeon

The doctor who advised Manilow that his body is not yet ready to perform 90-minute arena shows as part of his recovery from cancer surgery.

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What they’re saying

“Barry, you won't be ready to do a 90 minute show. Your lungs aren't ready yet.”

— Manilow's Surgeon

“You shouldn't do the first Arena shows. You won't make it through.”

— Manilow's Surgeon

“I'm SO, SO sorry I have to reschedule some of these first Arena shows. Again! But when I do come back, I will COME BACK!!!”

— Barry Manilow, Singer-Songwriter (Social Media)

What’s next

Manilow's surgeon indicated he might be able to perform in Las Vegas at the end of March and for the second leg of the arena shows scheduled to begin in April.

The takeaway

Manilow's health challenges and need to reschedule concerts underscore the physical toll that a long career in the music industry can take, even on seasoned performers. His openness about his cancer diagnosis and recovery process provides a glimpse into the realities of managing major health issues while maintaining a high-profile entertainment career.